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Smiths Detection receives bio-protective shelter order from U.S. Army

Smiths Detection announced on Tuesday that it received a $42 million follow-on production order from the U.S. Army for its mobile medical shelters that protect against biological and chemical threats.

The Chemical Biological Protective Shelters are designed to military specifications and are highly resistant to biological and chemical threats. The shelters allow soldiers to administer healthcare in a chemical and biological agent-free environment without the need for protective clothing. The Army will use the shelters to equip the National Guard.

"CBPS provides a highly mobile, protected environment for medical care when the threat of chemical and biological agents are present," Bob Bohn, the vice president of U.S. sales for Smiths Detection, said. "It can also serve a critical function in non-combat situations, such as a natural disaster or terrorist attack response, where mobile medical services are vital."

Smiths Detection manufactures the CBPS systems at its U.S. headquarters in Edgewood, Md.

"Advanced manufacturing is a key part of growing our economy, which is why this win by Edgewood-based Smiths Detection and its suppliers across Maryland is so important," Martin O'Malley, the governor of Maryland, said. "The dual-use equipment will enhance the National Guard's ability to protect our troops abroad and our communities at home, and this initiative is another step forward for Maryland's economy."

Smiths Detection designs and manufactures solutions to identify and detect threats including biohazards, chemical agents, nuclear, radiation and explosives. Its major customers include the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of Defense.

"When our nation's governors deploy the National Guard to natural disasters and other emergencies, these specialist shelters provide rapid and secure on-scene medical care," Kevin Schmidt, the vice president of government relations at Smiths Group, said.